Biography
Bobby Hackett and Jack Teagarden were two of the most revered figures in American jazz, celebrated for their lyrical playing and deep musical rapport. Bobby Hackett, born in Providence, Rhode Island in 1915, began his career as a guitarist and violinist before focusing on cornet and trumpet. By the mid-1930s, Hackett was working with notable bands in Boston and New York, including those led by Joe Marsala and Eddie Condon. He became known for his melodic approach and beautiful tone, contributing memorable solos with the Glenn Miller Orchestra and later collaborating with Jackie Gleason and Tony Bennett. Hackett's style was rooted in swing and Dixieland, and he was often praised for his romantic ballads and ability to make melodies shine[1][3][6][7].
Jack Teagarden, born in Vernon, Texas in 1905, was a pioneering jazz trombonist and singer. Raised in a musical family, he developed a unique approach to the trombone, favoring trumpet-like phrasing and exceptional embouchure control over the traditional 'tailgate' style. Teagarden gained prominence in the late 1920s, recording with jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Benny Goodman, and Fats Waller. He led his own bands and was a key member of Paul Whiteman's orchestra and Armstrong's All-Stars. Teagarden's relaxed, blues-inflected vocals and technical innovations made him one of the first white Americans to effectively sing the blues on record[2][4].
Hackett and Teagarden's collaboration produced some of jazz's most cherished recordings, including 'Jazz Ultimate' and 'Coast Concert.' Their musical partnership was marked by a shared sensibility—lyrical, melodic, and deeply expressive—that resonated with audiences and critics alike. Both artists left a lasting legacy, influencing generations of jazz musicians and helping to shape the sound of American jazz in the mid-20th century[1][3][5].
Fun Facts
- Bobby Hackett was sometimes called 'the new Bix' after Bix Beiderbecke, though he was uncomfortable with the comparison[1].
- Jack Teagarden was one of the first white Americans to effectively sing the blues on record[4].
- Louis Armstrong famously described Hackett as 'the cream' to his 'coffee,' highlighting their musical compatibility[1].
- Hackett was humorously credited with increasing the birth rate in the 1950s due to his romantic ballads with Jackie Gleason[1].
Musical Connections
Mentors/Influences
- Louis Armstrong - Major stylistic influence on both Hackett and Teagarden; Armstrong's phrasing and melodic approach deeply impacted their playing. (Collaborations with Armstrong's All-Stars (Teagarden); Armstrong's praise for Hackett's style.) [1930s-1950s]
- Miff Mole - Early trombone innovator whose adventurous solos influenced Teagarden's approach. (Recordings with Red Nichols; indirect influence on Teagarden.) [1920s]
Key Collaborators
- Jack Teagarden - Frequent collaborator with Bobby Hackett; together they recorded several notable albums. (Jazz Ultimate, Coast Concert) [1950s]
- Benny Goodman - Both Hackett and Teagarden played in Goodman's bands at different times. (Benny Goodman Orchestra) [1940s-1960s]
- Louis Armstrong - Teagarden was a member of Armstrong's All-Stars; Armstrong praised Hackett's playing. (Louis Armstrong's All-Stars) [1946-1951]
- Jackie Gleason - Hackett contributed solos to Gleason's orchestra, known for romantic ballads. (Jackie Gleason Orchestra recordings) [1953-1955]
Artists Influenced
- Vic Dickenson - Hackett's lyrical style influenced Dickenson, with whom he recorded several albums. (Live at the Roosevelt Grill) [1968-1970]
- Dave McKenna - Hackett worked closely with pianist McKenna, influencing his approach to jazz accompaniment. (Live at the Roosevelt Grill) [1970s]
Connection Network
Discography
Top Tracks
- Jeepers Creepers (Father Of Jazz Trombone)
- I'm Comin' Virginia (Father Of Jazz Trombone)
External Links
References
Heard on WWOZ
BOBBY HACKETT AND JACK TEAGARDEN has been played 7 times on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 18, 2025 | 09:40 | The Christmas Song | Traditional Jazzw/ Sally Young | |
| Nov 1, 2025 | 08:53 | I Got the Ritz from the One I Lovefrom Encyclopedia of Jazz Vol. 084 | Traditional Jazzw/ Big Pete | |
| Oct 30, 2025 | 09:17 | Glass Blues | Traditional Jazzw/ Sally Young | |
| Oct 19, 2025 | 17:29 | 55TH AND BROADWAYfrom JAZZ ULTIMATE | Sitting Inw/ Elizabeth Meneray | |
| Oct 9, 2025 | 10:38 | Meet Me Where They Play The Blues | Traditional Jazzw/ Sally Young | |
| Sep 13, 2025 | 09:28 | Wolverine Bluesfrom Chronological 1939-1940 | Traditional Jazzw/ Big Pete | |
| Sep 13, 2025 | 09:25 | At Least You Could Say Hellofrom Chronological 1939-1940 | Traditional Jazzw/ Big Pete |